New figures released by the National Highway Transportation Traffic Safety Administration indicate the number of alcohol related traffic deaths slightly dropped from 2004 to 2005. Meanwhile, the U.S. Army is working to make sure it's soldiers and employees don't get caught up in those numbers.

A pilot program by the Army Surgeon General made breathalyzers available to all soldiers and civilians affiliated to military hospitals across in the U.S. At William Beaumont Army Medical Center about 2,500 were issued right before the start of the holiday season. The goal was to remind soldiers and civilians about the dangers of drinking and driving.

One soldier who received a BreathScan breathalyzer agrees it's a good way to keep everyone safe.

"It prevents us from getting tested by the cops. This way we could test ourselves before we drive," said Sgt. Neli Delgado.

The BreathScan test kit fits anywhere, making it easy to carry. In fact, it looks like a cigarette, but smaller.

The way it works, one must wait 15 minutes after the last drink before cracking the inner tube and blowing into it for 12 seconds. BreathScan has crystals inside that turn from yellow to blue or green if alcohol levels of .04 or higher are detected in the breath. Otherwise, they stay yellow or turn clear. It only takes two minutes to get results.

The BreathScan received approval by the Food and Drug Administration in May 2006, and it's said to be about 100 percent accurate.

Ft. Bliss officials credit the breathalyzer pilot program for curbing the number of DWI's issued this past holiday season.

"I know we had more than one DWI last year. This year we had zero. So, so far it has worked," said Henry Ford, Safety Officer at Beaumont.

The pilot program supports the Army Chief of Staff's Safety and Occupational Health Strategic Plan. The program is now over, and data is being calculated. It's unknown if the program will continue, or if it will be turned army-wide.

BreathScans are also available for the general public. They can be bought online and price ranges from $2-3.